Hamilton named as one of nation's friendliest places to live

HAMILTON -- Forbes and Neighborhood.com recognized Hamilton as one of the nation's friendliest places to live.

The Madison County village was 11th on a list of 15 places to live, topped by the Washington town of Sammamish. The study used data complied by the FBI, the U.S. Census, the Chronicle of Philanthropy and City-Data.com.

Towns were ranked based on a combination of crime rate, volunteerism, home ownership and college graduation rates.

Village of Hamilton Mayor Margaret Miller said Hamilton earned its ranking because it is "a community that works together."

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"We work to make the village and town of Hamilton a safe, healthy, and happy place to live," Miller said.

Miller thanks Hamilton's many committees and volunteer groups, such as the parks committee, the fire department, the life-long learning program and the summer recreation program at Colgate that help make the town such a friendly place.

The village's downtown area and green offer great opportunities, as well.

"We have a handful of shops and local restaurants that feature local artwork and offer friendly atmospheres," Miller said. "The Colgate Inn is known as a good place to eat throughout the area."

The village features an array of different cuisine and activities including a recently owned Indian restaurant and neighboring Tranquility Message Parlor. Hamilton's movie theater also shows blockbusters in its three auditoriums and features frequent specials including a movie under the stars in the summer and kids' days.

From May to November a farmers market in Hamilton's park also offers a social experience in addition to local produce, Miller said.

"There's a lot to do here, and it's a great place to live," the mayor said.